These Charcoal Skincare Products Will Detoxify Your Skin

Purifying formulas for a picture-perfect complexion

In the world of earthy purifying wonders, charcoal is right up there with clay and mud. This holy-grail ingredient has been purging impurities since ancient times, thanks to its ability to attach to and absorb toxins. (Emergency rooms will even use it to treat overdoses and poisonings!) But in the past few years, charcoal has also been trending in the world of skincare with promises of removing blackheads, minimizing pores, and zapping zits. How, you ask? As cosmetic chemist Ni'Kita Wilson explained to Allure: "When dirt and oil in your pores come in contact with the carbon, they stick to it and then get washed away when you rinse." So if you want a clear, glowy complexion on your big day (and who doesn’t?), charcoal skincare products could just be your ticket.

Bioré Deep Charcoal Cleanser

Courtesy of Bioré

Finding a great everyday face wash is essential. This drugstore buy is just that—easy on your wallet, but tough on dirt, oil, bacteria, and other acne-causing culprits with a fantastically foamy lather.

PLANT Apothecary Not a Spot Acne Treatment Mask

Courtesy of PLANT Apothecary

Struggling with blemishes? This clarifying formula is powered by highly absorbent activated charcoal and anti-inflammatory basil oil. And it’s surprisingly simply to use! Mix a half teaspoon of powder with a few drops of water to form a paste. Apply to breakouts, let dry, and rinse.

Julep Charcoal Konjac Sponge

Courtesy of Julep

This cult-favorite sponge harnesses the power of konjac root (a porous vegetable that grows throughout Asia) and charcoal to cleanse and slough away dead cells for a clearer, more radiant complexion. Bonus: It’s 100-percent biodegradable.

SHOP NOW: Ulta, $12

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Herbivore Bamboo Charcoal Cleansing Bar Soap

Courtesy of Herbivore

Handcrafted with detoxifying bamboo charcoal, antibacterial tea tree oil, and softening vitamin E, this ebony bar gently cleanses both face and body without stripping skin of moisture. It’s also travel-friendly—a must for weekend getaways and honeymoons.

Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask

Courtesy of Origins

Dermatologists will tell you the longer charcoal sits on your skin, the better it soaks up impurities. Hence why a face mask is such a smart idea. This treatment delivers on its promise to lift out toxins, clear congestion, and reduce excess sebum.

SheaMoisture Green Coconut & Activated Charcoal In-Shower Mask

Courtesy of SheaMoisture

Short on time? We have the perfect product for you! A balancing blend of purifying charcoal, hydrating green coconut, and antioxidant-rich white tea works its multi-tasking magic in just five minutes—all while you enjoy a warm shower.

SHOP NOW: Ulta, $12.99

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Boscia Luminizing Black Charcoal Mask

Courtesy of Boscia

There’s something grossly fascinating about seeing the gunk emerge from your pores. Few products deliver the satisfying and immediate results of this peel-off mask. Charcoal draws out deeply rooted debris and exfoliates, while vitamin C lends its brightening abilities.